Jazz was once heavily influenced by gospel music and spirituals, though in the 21st century, many younger players have discarded it for the most part. But tenor saxophonist
Gregory Tardy not only embraces his Christian upbringing but devotes this entire CD to music that has lifted up his life. Starting with a powerful rendition of the late
Rev. James Cleveland's "Christ the Redeemer,"
Tardy preaches through his majestic horn, with superb backing from pianist
Xavier Davis. The influence of
John Coltrane is unmistakable in the passionate take of the spiritual "Lord Revive Us" (though
Coltrane never recorded, or likely performed this piece), which adds guest trumpeter
Philip Dizack and alto saxophonist
Riley Bandy. He also explores works by modern composers, including Sharp Radway's snappy "Holy Ghost Fall on Me" and jazz pianist/bandleader
Eric Reed's heartfelt miniature "He Cares," the latter an intimate duet by
Tardy on clarinet with
Davis. The guests are also present on a foot-tapping arrangement of the spiritual "Jordan River" and "Remember Me." If the music in churches would swing as hard as
Gregory Tardy's band on this session, attendance would likely improve. Highly recommended! ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide